1/2 lb. shortening
2 c. sugar
6 eggs or more
1 c. molasses
4 tbsp. baking powder
1 tbsp. baking soda
1 1/2 c. water or use 1 1/2 c. bourbon
3/4 lb. chopped nuts
1 lb. dates
1 lb. pineapple
1/2 lb. citron peel
1/4 lb. orange peel
2 tsp. salt
2 tsp. cinnamon
2 tsp. cloves
1 1/2 tsp. nutmeg
1 tsp. ginger
5 c. flour
1 lb. cherries
2 boxes raisins or 2 lbs. mixed fruit
1/4 lb. lemon peel

Cream together shortening and sugar; add eggs, then set aside. Sift flour and add all dry ingredients together, then take the cream mixture and add the water or bourbon and gradually add the dry ingredients; make sure this is mixed good before adding the nuts, dates, cherries, pineapple, raisins, and the mixed peel. Fill 1 lb. loaf pans 2/3 full.

Bake at 275 degrees in a slow oven for 2 1/2 hours.

After they are done, wrap foil pan with foil and let stand in cool place until ready for use or to give as gifts. I have made these before Thanksgiving for Christmas gifts. They are very good.